Write to Calm Your Soul
Hello Dear One,
It’s February 2021. Something about this date seems odd to me. Futuristic. Or perhaps I have too much time to think.
It’s gotten to the stage in the UK lockdown where I’m dealing with the every-day-is-the-same syndrome, the feeling that I might burst out of my skin if nothing new comes along. And then, there’s the knowledge that nothing is going to happen unless I make it (hello online courses). As the writer Matt Haig said - I miss things. Live music especially. But also just people. Connecting. Feeling energy around me that is not my own. Dancing in a room full of strangers. Possibility.
However, I also recognise this emotional state for what it is - fleeting. And I have plenty to do. It’s just I sometimes find it hard to do it.
I share because I want you to know you are not alone. This is a challenging time. You might be burned-out from home schooling or being an essential worker. You might be fed up of working and living in the same space. You might joyous most of the time, then suddenly on the verge of tears. Or, you might just be lonely. Welcome what is true for you, whatever side of the spectrum it comes from.
There are quite a few new people to this letter (hello!) so I’ve decided to make this my first prompt re-run. I’ve chosen self-compassion not because it was at the core of my journey, but because it still is. I go back to this activity whenever I’m feeling big things, when I’m challenged or on the verge of giving up hope. It always helps me ground myself. It calms my soul. And from there I can move forward.
So, today, or whenever these words make their way to you, I encourage you to take fifteen minutes. That’s all. Fifteen minutes to be kind to yourself. To observe how it feels. You might have been working with this for some time now and be able to drop in. It’s also ok if it’s awkward and sticky, if you can’t quite believe the words. Try to drop the judgement. You know in your heart you deserve kindness. All of us do. The more you repeat this and cultivate it for yourself the bolder and braver you will become. And we need bold and brave people, don’t we?
I hope it helps. Comment if you like, and let me know.
Yesterday marked a year since I first posted on the Write to Thrive Instagram, a tiny step towards turning this into a reality. It wouldn’t be big and important to some people, but it is big and important to me. I remember how scared I was no one would follow, how I recorded my first video about twenty times. I’m proud of how it’s grown, of the work I’m putting into the world.
So - I mean this - thanks for being here, and being you. You are supporting my dream; I hope I am supporting you in some small way too.
All love,
Jo
SOME NEWS
SINGLE WOMEN WRITE - My Valentine’s workshop for single ladies (like me) is up and open for booking. This will be ninety minutes of nourishing writing all about you and your dreams. Spots are filling up, so book soon if it calls - or tell your single friends.
PROMPT A DAY - Thanks to everyone who liked, commented and shared the January prompts. I’m taking a pause for now, but these will remain on my Instagram, so if you haven’t checked them out or need a nudge go, go!
I’m also collaborating with some gorgeous humans on a half-day retreat, details to come in the next letter.